Do I Need a Tree Permit in Los Altos?
Los Altos lowered its protection threshold from 15 to 12 inches DBH in 2024 — meaning more trees now require permits. Native oaks and California buckeyes are protected at just 10 inches. Here's the updated permit process.
Does my tree need a permit?
Select your tree type and measure the trunk to get an instant answer based on Los Altos's ordinance (Chapter 11.08).
DBH = diameter measured at 48 inches above natural grade. Wrap a tape around the trunk and divide by 3.14.
What trees are protected in Los Altos?
Los Altos updated its threshold from 15 to 12 inches DBH in 2024, significantly expanding the number of protected trees. Native oaks and California buckeyes have an even lower threshold of 10 inches DBH. The city requires an arborist report for all heritage tree removal permits and targets 30-day processing for complete applications, with a 10-day public notice period before approval.
| Category | Protected at | Notes | Penalty |
|---|---|---|---|
| Coast Live Oak, Valley Oak | ≥10″ DBH | Native oaks — lower threshold | $5,000+ per tree |
| California Buckeye | ≥10″ DBH | Native species protection | $5,000+ per tree |
| All other protected trees | ≥12″ DBH | Updated from 15″ in 2024 | $5,000+ per tree |
| Heritage trees | Designated | City Council designation | Appraised value + replacement |
| Street trees | Any size | City-owned, in right-of-way | City replacement + penalties |
Not sure if your tree qualifies?
Measure first. An arborist consultation ($150–$300) is far cheaper than violation penalties. Call Community Development at (650) 947-2750 — they can often tell you on the phone whether your tree is likely protected.
How to get a tree removal permit in Los Altos
Los Altos's permit process runs through Community Development. Here's the step-by-step sequence:
Measure your tree
Measure trunk diameter at 48 inches above natural grade. For native oaks and California buckeyes, the threshold is 10 inches. For all other species, it's 12 inches (updated from 15 inches in 2024).
Get an arborist report
An ISA Certified Arborist report is required for heritage tree removals and recommended for all protected tree applications. Budget $350–$600. The report must document condition, reason for removal, and alternatives.
Submit to Community Development
File the Tree Removal Permit Application with Community Development at (650) 947-2750. Include arborist report, site plan, and photos. Pay the $300 permit fee.
City review and public notice
The city targets 30-day processing. Once approved, a 10-calendar-day public notice period begins before the permit becomes final. Heritage trees may require additional review.
Receive permit and schedule work
Once the public notice period passes without appeal, hire a licensed tree service (CSLB C-61/D-49). Replacement planting may be required per permit conditions.
What happens if you remove a tree without a permit?
$5,000+ per tree
Unauthorized removal of a protected tree in Los Altos carries fines of $5,000 or more per tree. The city may also require replacement plantings at the violator's expense and can pursue additional code enforcement actions. Heritage tree violations carry higher penalties including full appraised value assessment.
A permit costs $300 and takes 4–6 wks. The penalties for skipping it are orders of magnitude higher. There's no scenario where unpermitted removal saves money.
Los Altos Community Development — contact and resources
Call before you apply
Community Development staff at (650) 947-2750 can often tell you whether your tree is likely protected before you spend money on an arborist report. Worth a 10-minute call.
Frequently asked questions
Does pruning require a permit in Los Altos?
Light pruning following ISA standards generally does not require a permit. Significant pruning that alters the tree's structure or removes more than 25% of the canopy requires city approval for protected trees.
What if the tree is dead or hazardous?
Dead or hazardous trees may qualify for expedited removal, but contact Community Development at (650) 947-2750 before proceeding. Document the hazard with photos and an arborist assessment.
What changed in the 2024 threshold update?
Los Altos lowered the general protection threshold from 15 inches DBH to 12 inches DBH, significantly expanding the number of protected trees. Native oaks and California buckeyes were already protected at 10 inches and remain unchanged. The update means many trees that previously didn't require permits now do.
Related reading for Los Altos tree owners
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